What is erosive esophagitis?

Erosive esophagitis is an inflammation of the lining of the muscular tube that routes food from the mouth to the stomach, according to WebMD. This tube, the esophagus, can become inflamed and irritated by acid reflux, also known as gastroesophageal reflex disease, candida or herpes infections, among other causes.

Symptoms of erosive esophagitis include difficulty or pain with swallowing, sores in the mouth, heartburn, nausea, vomiting or a feeling that something is lodged in the throat, according to WebMD. Treatment depends on the severity of the esophagitis and may be as simple as taking heartburn medications and antibiotics. More advanced cases may require surgery to remove damaged sections of the esophagus.